Exploring visual journalism

duckpin bowling

MOUNT JACKSON, Va. (AP) — The pins and balls in duckpin bowling aren’t as forgiving to beginners as the larger, heavier 10-pin bowling, but according to competitor Jerry Middleton it is what keeps him coming back to Shenandoah Bowling Lanes. The sport is believed to have started in Baltimore, and while duckpin enjoyed its peak in the 1960s, only around 60 alleys remain in the United States.

“It’s like a mind game,” says Middleton during a decidedly low-key tournament at Shenandoah.

Six bowling lanes are squeezed inside the second floor of the old brick building at the alley, which has been open since 1948. Its maple wood floors and vintage fixtures still largely intact, the only thing that is out of mid-century character is the Black Keys and Alabama Shakes playing on the radio.

Duckpin bowling was once a sport synonymous with the city of Baltimore. In its heyday during the 1960s, more than 1,200 lanes could be found throughout the region. Now the Patterson Bowling Center in East Baltimore is one of just a few facilities in the area keeping the sport alive.

William Shakespeare wrote, “All the world is a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” Over the years, the photographers of The Baltimore Sun have captured for eternity these characters in some of their funniest and strangest moments. These are a sampling of the many pictures taken that we hope will make you pause and either smile, chuckle or laugh. We would love to hear which are your favorites.